Electrode for attention training techniques

ABSTRACT

An electrode includes a core of beryllium copper alloy and a safe metal coating. In some embodiments, the beryllium copper alloy comprises more than three percent beryllium, less than three percent other metals and a remaining percent copper. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a headband, and a first and second safe metal coated copper-beryllium alloy electrode. The headband is configured to fit snugly to a head of a subject in an orientation from behind a first ear, across a crown of the subject, to a position behind a second ear. The first electrode and second electrode are disposed in the headband to contact a head of the subject at a first position and a different second position, respectively, without gels. In various embodiments, the headband includes a chip to determine an analog signal and transmit data; and, a system includes the headband and a signal analyzing unit.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.13/980,759, filed on Oct. 7, 2013, which is a national phase filingunder 35 U.S.C. 371 of International Application No. PCT/US2011/021983,filed Jan. 21, 2011, and both of these applications are incorporatedherein by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Cognitive learning and operant condition training efficacy to help aperson exercise their focusing and working memory skills is wellestablished and leads to long-term increase in attention and memory.This kind of skill learning is equally effective as pharmacotherapy. Forexample, a news report states, “One interesting treatment is a form oftherapy in which children wear electrodes on their head and learn tocontrol video games by exercising the parts of the brain related toattention and focus. Research has suggested that the method works justas well as medication, and many children report that they enjoy it.” NewYork Times, Jun. 20, 2008. Proven permanent benefits of such learninginclude greater focus, increased working memory and intelligencequotient (IQ), and reduced anxiety.

Unfortunately, many devices for placing electrodes on a subject's headsuffer from one or more deficiencies. Deficiencies include, large andbulky head gear, messy liquids or gels or painful scalp abrasions ortime consuming processes to place electrodes in good electricalconductance with the subject's scalp, constraining hardwired connectionsto recording and analyzing equipment, limited stimulus feedback to thesubject, and on site presence of a treatment specialist, such as atechnician or therapist.

SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Therefore, there is a need for electrodes to be used in attentiontraining, which do not suffer one or more of these deficiencies. Forexample, there is a need for a lightweight, mobile, wireless headgearwith small sensitive electrodes that do not require gels, liquids orabrasions for good electrical contact. Similarly, there is a need formaterials that provide good electrical contact with a human head to usein the fabrication of such sensitive electrodes.

According to one set of embodiments, a beryllium copper alloy for suchelectrodes includes more than three percent by weight beryllium, lessthan about three percent other metals and a substantively remainingpercent by weight copper. The other metals are selected from a groupcomprising cobalt, nickel, iron, gold, silver and lead.

According to another set of embodiments, an electrode for detectingelectroencephalogram potentials includes a core of beryllium copperalloy and a coating of safe metal, such as copper or silver.

According to another set of embodiments, an apparatus includes aheadband, a first electrode and a second electrode. The headband isconfigured to fit snugly to a head of a subject in an orientation frombehind a first ear of the subject, across a top of a crown of thesubject, to a position behind a second ear of the subject. The firstelectrode comprises a safe metal coated copper-beryllium alloy electrodedisposed in the headband to contact a head of the subject at a firstposition. The second electrode comprises a safe metal coatedcopper-beryllium alloy electrode disposed in the headband to contact thehead of the subject at a different second position.

In some of these embodiments, the apparatus further includes a chip setdisposed on the headband. The chip set is configured to determine ananalog signal based on a first signal received from the first electrodeand a second signal received from the second electrode. The chip set isconfigured further to transmit, wirelessly, data that indicates theanalog signal.

In another set of embodiments, a system includes the apparatus describedabove and a signal analyzing unit. The signal analyzing unit includes atleast one processor and at least one memory including computer programcode for one or more programs. The at least one memory and the computerprogram code are configured to, with the at least one processor, causethe signal analyzing unit to at least receive wirelessly the data thatindicates the analog signal and determine, based on the data, at least afirst frequency band and a different second frequency band selected froma group comprising an alpha brain wave band, a beta brain wave band, adelta brain wave band and a theta brain wave band. The analyzing unit isfurther configured to determine a score based on a strength or peakfrequency of the first frequency band and a strength or peak frequencyof the second frequency band. The analyzing unit is also configured tocause a stimulus to be presented to the subject based at least in parton the score.

According to another set of embodiments, a method includes determining afirst electroencephalogram potential temporal trace at an activeelectrode in contact with a first position on a subject. The method alsoincludes determining a second electroencephalogram potential temporaltrace at a reference electrode in contact with a different secondposition on the subject. Each of the active electrode and referenceelectrode comprises a safe metal coated copper-beryllium alloy core, andeach of the active electrode and reference electrode is disposed in acorresponding position on a headband. The method further comprisesdetermining, in a chip set disposed in the headband, an analog signaltemporal trace based on the first electroencephalogram potentialtemporal trace and the second electroencephalogram potential temporaltrace. The method further includes transmitting, from the chip setdisposed in the headband, data that indicates the analog signal temporaltrace.

In another set of embodiments, a method includes receiving, wirelessly,data that indicates an analog signal temporal trace based on a firstelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace of a subject and adifferent second electroencephalogram potential temporal trace of thesubject. The method also includes determining, based on the data, atleast a first frequency band and a different second frequency bandselected from a group comprising an alpha brain wave band, a beta brainwave band, a delta brain wave band and a theta brain wave band. Themethod further comprises determining a score based on a strength or peakfrequency of the first frequency band and a strength or peak frequencyof the second frequency ban, and causing a stimulus to be presented tothe subject based at least in part on the score.

According to another embodiment, a computer-readable storage mediumcarries one or more sequences of one or more instructions which, whenexecuted by one or more processors, cause, at least in part, anapparatus to perform one or more steps of one of the above methods.

According to another embodiment, an apparatus comprises means forperforming the steps of one of the above methods.

In various example embodiments, the methods (or processes) can beaccomplished on a service provider side or on a mobile device side or inany shared way between service provider and mobile device with actionsbeing performed on both sides.

Still other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention arereadily apparent from the following detailed description, simply byillustrating a number of particular embodiments and implementations,including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Theinvention is also capable of other and different embodiments, and itsseveral details can be modified in various obvious respects, all withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, thedrawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature,and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of example, andnot by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1A is a block diagram that illustrates an example system capable ofattention training with improved electrodes, according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 1B is a diagram that illustrates example placement of a headsetrelative to the 10-20 electrode placement system of the InternationalFederation of Electroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology,according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2A is a block diagram that illustrates an example head gearapparatus, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2B is a block diagram that illustrates an example electrode for thehead gear apparatus, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2C is a block diagram that illustrates an example chip set for thehead gear apparatus, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart that illustrates an example process for the chipset of FIG. 2C, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart that illustrates an example process for theanalyzing unit of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart that illustrates an example process for the webserver of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a diagram of hardware that can be used to implement anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a chip set that can be used to implement anembodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 8 is a diagram of a mobile terminal (e.g., handset) that can beused to implement an embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

Examples of an alloy, electrode, method, apparatus, and computer programare disclosed for attention training. In the following description, forthe purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth inorder to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of theinvention. It is apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that theembodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specificdetails or with an equivalent arrangement. In other instances,well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form inorder to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the embodiments of the invention.

Although various embodiments are described with respect to attentiontraining using beta brain waves, it is contemplated that, in otherembodiments, the techniques described herein may be used with othertraining or non-training applications based on anyelectroencephalography (EEG) signals or other signals detectednon-inversely on human skin. In some embodiments, the alloy describedherein is used in electrodes for any purpose.

FIG. 1A is a block diagram that illustrates an example system 100capable of attention training with improved electrodes, according to oneembodiment. This system reduces or eliminates one or more deficienciesof prior approaches, such as large and bulky head gear, messy liquids orgels or painful scalp abrasions or time consuming processes to placeelectrodes in good electrical conductance with the subject's scalp,constraining hardwired connections to recording and analyzing equipment,limited stimulus feedback to the subject, and on site presence of atreatment specialist, such as a technician or therapist.

To address this problem, the system 100 of FIG. 1A introduces thecapability to collect EEG signals from a subject 190 on a lightweightmobile headset 110 that communicates wirelessly with a nearby analyzingunit, called an analyzer 120 for convenience. The analyzer 120 is incommunication with one or more other network devices via communicationsnetwork 105. This allows a stimulus to be presented to the subject 190at a user interface module 132 as determined by an interface servermodule 134 based on data sent from the analyzer 120. In someembodiments, data produced by the analyzer 120 is stored on a web servermodule 142 where it can be accessed by the interface server 134.Furthermore the data at web server 142, in some embodiments, areaccessed by a web client module 144 (such as a browser) for the benefitof one or more remote users, such as a technician or therapist. Althougha head of subject 190 is depicted for the purposes of illustration, thesubject 190 is not part of the system 100.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the system 100 comprises a headset 110 and ananalyzer 120 and user interface 132 and web client 144 havingconnectivity to web server 142 or interface server 134, or somecombination, via a communication network 105. By way of example, thecommunication network 105 of system 100 includes one or more networkssuch as a data network (not shown), a wireless network (not shown), atelephony network (not shown), or any combination thereof. It iscontemplated that the data network may be any local area network (LAN),metropolitan area network (MAN), wide area network (WAN), a public datanetwork (e.g., the Internet), short range wireless network, or any othersuitable packet-switched network, such as a commercially owned,proprietary packet-switched network, e.g., a proprietary cable orfiber-optic network, and the like, or any combination thereof. Inaddition, the wireless network may be, for example, a cellular networkand may employ various technologies including enhanced data rates forglobal evolution (EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), globalsystem for mobile communications (GSM), Internet protocol multimediasubsystem (IMS), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS),etc., as well as any other suitable wireless medium, e.g., worldwideinteroperability for microwave access (WiMAX), Long Term Evolution (LTE)networks, code division multiple access (CDMA), wideband code divisionmultiple access (WCDMA), wireless fidelity (WiFi), wireless LAN (WLAN),Bluetooth®, Internet Protocol (IP) data casting, satellite, mobilead-hoc network (MANET), and the like, or any combination thereof.

The analyzer 120 and user interface module 132 is any type of mobileterminal, fixed terminal, or portable terminal including a mobilehandset, station, unit, device, multimedia computer, multimedia tablet,Internet node, communicator, desktop computer, laptop computer, notebookcomputer, netbook computer, tablet computer, personal communicationsystem (PCS) device, personal navigation device, personal digitalassistants (PDAs), audio/video player, digital camera/camcorder,positioning device, television receiver, radio broadcast receiver,electronic book device, game device, or any combination thereof,including the accessories and peripherals of these devices, or anycombination thereof. It is also contemplated that the analyzer 120 anduser interface 132 can support any type of interface to the user (suchas “wearable” circuitry, etc.), including the mobile headset 110.

Scalp recordings of neuronal activity in the brain, identified as anEEG, allow measurement of potential changes over time in basic electriccircuit conducting between signal (active) electrode and referenceelectrode. Extra third electrode, called ground electrode, is sometimesused. Differential voltages are obtained by subtracting the samevoltages showing at active and reference points. A minimal configurationfor mono-channel EEG measurement is considered to consist of one activeelectrode, one (or two specially linked together) reference electrode(s)and one ground electrode. Multi-channel configurations can comprise upto 128 or 256 active electrodes. In 1958, International Federation inElectroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology adopted a standardfor electrode placement called 10-20 electrode placement system. Thissystem standardized physical placement and designations of electrodes onthe scalp. The head is divided into proportional distances fromprominent skull landmarks (nasion, pre-auricular points, inion) toprovide adequate coverage of all regions of the brain. Labels for the10-20 electrode placement system designates proportional distance inpercents between ears and nose where points for electrodes are chosen.Electrode placements are labeled according adjacent brain areas: F(frontal), C (central), T (temporal), P (posterior), and O (occipital).The letters are accompanied by odd numbers at the left side of the headand with even numbers on the right side. Left and right side isconsidered by convention from point of view of a subject.

The headset 110 provides lightweight, mobile, fast, easy, robust andsensitive electrical contact with the subject's head, preprocessing andwireless transmission of EEG data. FIG. 1B is a diagram that illustratesexample placement of headset 110 relative to the 10-20 electrodeplacement system 191 of the International Federation ofElectroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology, according to anembodiment. The subject's head is depicted from above. A nose 192establishes the “naison” position, and a line between left ear 194 a andright ear 194 b defines the central brain areas C3, Cz and C4. A mastoidarea is located behind each ear at the back of a temporal skull plate;mastoid area 198 behind right ear 194 b is depicted in FIG. 1B. Aheadband component of the headset 110 is configured to fit snugly to ahead of a subject in an orientation from behind a first ear 194 a of thesubject, across a top of a crown of the subject, to a position behind asecond ear 194 b of the subject. In some embodiments, the headband isdesigned ergonomically to be comfortable to wear for long periods ofseveral hours. In the illustrated embodiment, the headband passes overthe Cz position 196 at the top of the crown of the subject. The width112 of the headband in the vicinity of the Cz position 196 is depicted.In some embodiments, to minimize the bulkiness and weight of theheadset, the headband component is limited in size and weight. Forexample, a width 112 of four centimeters or less is used.

In the illustrated embodiments, the components of the headset 110 aredescribed in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 2A through 2C. Insome embodiments, the headset includes some processing of EEG signals,including noise reduction, filtering, and determining a differentialsignal. The processing is described in more detail below with referenceto FIG. 3.

Referring again to FIG. 1A, the analyzer 120 is placed withintransmission range of the headset 110, to receive from the headset 110the data that describes EEG signals in one or more frequency bands. Asdescribed in more detail below with reference to FIG. 4, The analyzer120 determines signal strength in one or more brain wave bands anddetermines a score to be used to reward or penalize a subject 190 basedon absolute or relative signal strength in two or more brain wave bands.Standard brain wave frequency bands are typically defined as follows, inorder of increasing frequency in hertz (Hz, 1 Hz=1 cycle per second):

delta brain wave band (0.5-4 Hz);

theta brain wave band (4-8 Hz);

alpha brain wave band (8-13 Hz);

beta brain wave band (>13 Hz).

Brain patterns form wave shapes that are commonly sinusoidal; aremeasured from peak to peak; and normally range from 0.5 to 100 microvolts (μV, 1 μV=10⁻⁶ volts, V) in amplitude, which is about 100 timeslower than electrical signals measured at the surface of the skin in thevicinity of the heart. The processing by the analyzer 120 is describedin more detail below with reference to FIG. 4.

The score provided by the analyzer 120 can be used for many purposes,including controlling games or biofeedback or other applications. Insome embodiments, the subject 190 is provided a stimulus at a userinterface module 132 based on the score. In some embodiments, aninterface server module 134, such as a game controller, obtains thescore from the analyzer 120 and uses the score to determine a stimulusto present on the user interface module 132, such as a video screen,television, speakers, or tactile presentation device. Thus, in someembodiments, analyzer 120 acts as universal game adaptor that teachesthe user to exercise his or her powers of attention and memory skillsthrough a series of entertaining video games on one or more modules 134.In some embodiments, analyzer 120 acts as universal adaptor that teachesthe user to exercise his or her powers of attention and memory skillsthrough existing cognitive tools on one or more modules 134. In someembodiments, the wireless interface between headset 110 and analyzer 120can use a game wireless protocol, and thus be used as an add-on toexisting wireless games to add benefit of playing. Some or all functionsof the analyzer are thus incorporated in the interface server 134, insuch embodiments. An advantage of such an embodiment is to allow gamedesigners to determine their own score to help a person exercise her orhis attention and focusing or different mental skills, like relaxing,while playing games that exist on the market. Together, the interfaceserver 134 and user interface 132 constitute a subject stimulationsystem 130.

In some embodiments, a remote user (e.g., technician or care giver, suchas a therapist), has access to some or all of the data determined by theanalyzer 120. For example, the data is stored in a secure database atweb server 142, and a remote user accesses the web server 142 through aweb client 144, such as a World Wide Web browser (described below). Theserver 142 may send a challenge, such as a password request, to theclient 144, which, if successfully met, authorizes a user of client 144to access the information about subject 190 in the database of webserver 142. Together, the web server 142 and web client 144 constitute aremote user system 140. Thus, in some embodiments, a therapist user ofweb client 144 can assess the progress or lack thereof for subject 190.

Although components are depicted as several integral modules in aparticular arrangement in FIG. 1A, in other embodiments, one or moremodules or portions thereof are combined in a different arrangement inone or more hosts or devices connected to network 105. It iscontemplated that the functions of these components may be combined inone or more components or performed by other components of equivalentfunctionality. For example, in some embodiments, the interface servermodule 134 and user interface module 132 are processes in a single userinterface device, such as a game console or cell phone (or other mobileterminal) or personal computer. In some embodiments of another example,described above, the headset 110 communicates directly with theinterface server 134, which includes one or more functions of theanalyzer 120.

By way of example, the headset 110 and analyzer 120 communicate witheach other and other components of the communication network 105 (suchas subject stimulation system 130 or remote user system 140, or somecombination) using well known, new or still developing protocols. Inthis context, a protocol includes a set of rules defining how thenetwork nodes within the communication network 105 interact with eachother based on information sent over the communication links. Theprotocols are effective at different layers of operation within eachnode, from generating and receiving physical signals of various types,to selecting a link for transferring those signals, to the format ofinformation indicated by those signals, to identifying which softwareapplication executing on a computer system sends or receives theinformation. The conceptually different layers of protocols forexchanging information over a network are described in the Open SystemsInterconnection (OSI) Reference Model.

Communications between the network nodes are typically effected byexchanging discrete packets of data. Each packet typically comprises (1)header information associated with a particular protocol, and (2)payload information that follows the header information and containsinformation that may be processed independently of that particularprotocol.

Processes executing on various devices, often communicate using theclient-server model of network communications, widely known and used.According to the client-server model, a client process sends a messageof one or more data packets including a request to a server process, andthe server process responds by providing a service. The server processmay also return a message of one or more data packets with a response tothe client process. Often the client process and server process executeon different computer devices, called hosts, and communicate via anetwork using one or more protocols for network communications. The term“server” is conventionally used to refer to the process that providesthe service, or the host on which the process operates. Similarly, theterm “client” is conventionally used to refer to the process that makesthe request, or the host on which the process operates. As used herein,the terms “client” and “server” and “service” refer to the processes,rather than the hosts, unless otherwise clear from the context. Inaddition, the process performed by a server can be broken up to run asmultiple processes on multiple hosts (sometimes called tiers) forreasons that include reliability, scalability, and redundancy, amongothers. A well known client process available on most devices (callednodes) connected to a communications network is a World Wide Web client(called a “web browser,” or simply “browser”) that interacts throughmessages formatted according to the hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP)with any of a large number of servers called World Wide Web (WWW)servers that provide web pages.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram that illustrates an example head gearapparatus (called a headset 200 hereinafter), according to anembodiment. The headset 200 is a particular embodiment of headset 110.Headset 200 includes a headband 202 to which is attached one activeelectrode 210 a and one reference electrode 210 b (collectivelyreferenced hereinafter as EEG electrodes 210), and corresponding leads212 a and 212 b, respectively, connecting the electrodes to a headsetchip set 220. The headset chip set 220 is also attached to the headband202 in the illustrated embodiment. In some embodiments, the headband ismade of molded plastic because it is light, rigid and an electricalinsulator. In other embodiments a thin metal strip is used withinsulated leads and chip set. In some embodiments, the thickness 205 ofthe headband is about one centimeter thick or less to keep the headset200 as light as possible, but still strong enough to fit snugly andapply some pressure on the subject's head at the locations of theelectrodes 210.

In some embodiments, the headset 200 includes one or more additionalactive or reference electrodes, or both. An advantage of multipleelectrodes is a richer variety of signals for noise rejection ordetermining one or more scores for a subject. An advantage of a singleactive electrode and a single reference electrode is simplicity, lowercost, and fewer components in the chip set 220 for a smaller, lightercheaper chip set 220. In some embodiments, the electrodes 210 areberyllium copper electrodes with superior electrical properties thatallow a higher signal to noise ratio with fewer electrodes. In someembodiments, a ground electrode 204 is included with a lead 212 c toprovide electrical ground for chip set 220. Because detection of brainwaves is not involved, any electrode may be used as the ground electrode204, including copper, silver and beryllium copper electrodes.

In the example embodiment, the active electrode 210 a is placed in theheadband 202 to contact the subject in the vicinity of the Cz point 196;and the reference electrode 210 b is placed in the headband 202 tocontact the subject in the vicinity of the mastoid point 198. Anadvantage of this placement is that the brain waves associated withattention are strong near the Cz point 196 and weak near the mastoid198.

A beryllium copper alloy was developed to provide superior electricalproperties compared to other EEG electrodes. In one embodiment, theberyllium copper alloy comprises 4% by weight beryllium, 93.5% copper,1% an alloy of 50% nickel and 50% cobalt, 0.7% an alloy of one thirdnickel and one third cobalt and one third, and 0.8% lead.

In other embodiments, an alloy comprises about 3%-6% beryllium; lessthan about 3% one or more metals selected from a group comprisingcobalt, nickel, iron, silver, gold and lead; and a remaining percentcopper.

In an example embodiment, the alloy is fabricated by melting copper at980 to 1030 degrees Celsius (° C.) and adding the other constituents at1100° C. degrees and stirring for about one half hour, then cooling toan annealing temperature of 700 degrees for 2 hours. After furthercooling, the alloy is then washed with water and dried by baking.

Beryllium is often avoided in electrodes configured to contact humanskin, because beryllium is considered a carcinogen when in airbornedust, e.g., from grinding. To circumvent this issue, the electrodes 210are formed with a beryllium copper core and a safe metal coating. Asused herein a safe metal is one that is not considered a health hazardwhen in contact with human skin, such as copper, gold and silver. Forexample, in some embodiments, a 0.1 millimeter (mm, 1 mm=10⁻³ meters)copper coating is formed on a core of beryllium copper alloy.

FIG. 2B is a block diagram that illustrates an example electrode 210 forthe head gear apparatus 200, according to an embodiment. The electrodeincludes a safe metal coated base 216 and a safe metal coated core 214,wherein the core is narrower at a tip configured to contact a head of asubject than at a base configured to be attached to head gear. Anadvantage of the narrower tip is to contact the skin of the scalp evenwith hair on the scalp. In some embodiments, the core is shaped as afigure of rotation, so that the tip is smooth and does not scour orotherwise irritate the skin of the scalp. In the illustrated embodiment,the core is shaped as a hemisphere; while, in various other embodiments,the core is shaped as a hemispheroid or a smaller portion of a spheroid.A lead wire 212 is connected to the electrode at a connection 218, suchas a nut and post or weld joint or solder joint.

To keep the headset 200 as light as possible, the electrode is as smallas possible to still make good electrical contact with the skin of thescalp without aid of gels or liquids and without breaking the skin ofthe subject. For example, in some embodiments, the electrode 210 extendsperpendicular to the headband 202 by about three millimeters or less.This is effectively the radius of the spherical safe metal coated coredepicted in FIG. 2B. Similarly, in some embodiments, the electrode 210has a base contact area on the headband, represented by diameter 215,which is about four millimeters or less.

In an experimental embodiment, a headband with a copper coated berylliumcopper core electrode was tested. In twenty tests, good EEG signals wereobtained with amplitudes indicating electrical impedance at thescalp-electrode interface of about 3 kilo ohms (kΩ, 1 kΩ=10³ ohms) orless. These good results were attained with subjects moving and talking,and without special scalp preparation, including without removing orwashing the subject's hair.

The experimental setup included a subject sitting directly in front of acomputer at a distance of about 2 meters (m). The subject had theheadband on top of the scalp, and the electrodes were positioned asfollows: one electrode was at Cz; the reference electrode was at amastoid level, just behind the left ear; the ground electrode wasdiametrically opposite of the reference electrode, i.e. at the level ofthe mastoid near the right ear. The device placed in the light headbandamplified the signal, sending it to a receiver in the computer. Thesignal was then converted into values and was able to pass with validsignal to noise ratio, which enabled the reception of clear data.Impedances were consistently maintained below 3 kilo ohms. The equipmentrecorded the EEG activity at a speed of 2032 samples per second incontinuous streaming, and the subject was asked to focus on the gamebefore him/her.

FIG. 2C is a block diagram that illustrates an example chip set 220 forthe head gear apparatus 200, according to an embodiment. The chip set220 performs collection of the analog EEG signals from the electrodes210, some preprocessing that can be done effectively in small footprintanalog components and wireless transmission of data based on thepre-processing to the analyzer unit. To help reduce the size and weightof the headset, short range transmission (a few dozen meters) is used insome embodiments. For example 20 meter range transmission using theBLUETOOTH® protocol is employed in some embodiments.

In an illustrated embodiment, the chip set includes buffer module 222 tomatch impedance of input on leads 212 connected to electrodes 210, ahigh pass (HP) filter module 224 to remove a direct current (DC) offset,an noise rejection module 226 to reduce common mode noise, a band passfilter 228 to pass the frequency band of interest, an amplifier to boostthe signal for transmission, a transmitter 232 to send data wirelesslyto the analyzer 120 through antenna 233, and a power supply 234 with anon/off module 236. In some embodiments, a chassis for chip set 220 isconnected to the ground electrode 204, e.g., to prevent drift ofelectrical output.

In an example embodiment, the buffer module 222 entails impedancematching of about 1 kΩ on each of two leads 212 from the two safe metalcoated beryllium copper electrodes 210. The HP filter module 224 removesa DC offset from each of the two signals (active and reference,respectively) on the two leads. The noise rejection module 226 reducescommon mode noise found in both signals, e.g., by differencing the twosignals, with or without a relative delay introduced to one of thesignals. For example, the module 226 is a differential amplifier thatalso amplifies the voltage difference between the two signals. Thisamounts to subtracting the signal on the reference electrode from thesignal on the active electrode. The reference electrode reflects allsorts of skin currents, such as currents induced by nearby powercircuits, not associated with cerebral cortex activity that predominatesthe Cz signal on the active electrode. In various embodiments, one ormore of the modules 222, 224, 226 operate on analog signals with littledistortion in the 0.25 to 40 Hz frequency range of brain waves ofinterest.

The band pass module 228, passes signals with frequencies in at leastthe beta and theta brain wave bands used in the illustrated embodiment.For example, the module 228 passes frequencies in a frequency band fromat least about four (4) Hertz to at least about twenty (20) Hertz,comprising beta brain waves and theta brain waves (and intervening alphabrain waves). Thus, this band also includes the alpha brain wave bandbut leaves out the delta brain wave band and higher frequency in thebeta band that might be affected by power line noise (50 HZ in somecountries and 60 Hz in much of the United States). In some embodiments,higher frequencies in the beta brain wave band, or the delta brain waveband, or both are included. For example, the module 228 passesfrequencies in a wider frequency band from about one quarter (0.25)Hertz to about forty (40) Hertz, comprising alpha brain waves,additional beta brain waves, delta brain waves and theta brain waves. Invarious embodiments, the modules 228 operate on analog signals withlittle distortion in the pass band.

In the amplifier 230, the band passed signal is increased in amplitudesufficiently to drive the transmitter 232 to produce a measurable signalout to a design transmission range, such as 20 to 100 meters, throughantenna 233. In some embodiments, an analog signal is sent overtransmitter 232 through antenna 233. In some embodiments, the amplifieror transmitter includes an analog to digital converter (ADC), so thatdigital data can be sent by transmitter 232 through antenna 233. Anadvantage of sending digital data is a capacity to send several minutesof signals with frequency content up to 40 Hz, in less than a second.This is because a 0.25 Hz to 40 Hz signal is well sampled with 80samples per second. Assuming each sample involves an octet (eight binarydigits called bits), this example involves a sampling rate of 640 bitsper second. Common wireless digital transmission rates are highlyreliable over 1 Megabits per second (Mbps, 1 Mbps=10⁶ bits per second),which can send one minute of data (640 bits per second times 60seconds=38400 bits) in about 4 milliseconds (ms, 1 ms=10⁻³ seconds).

Power for the components 222 through 232 is provided by a power supplymodule 234. The chip set, and consequently headset 220 is turned on andoff using an on/off mechanism 236, such as a button or toggle switch.The power output by power supply 234 is consumed fastest by transmitter232. The farther the transmission is to be detected, the greater thepower consumption used to transmit. In some embodiments, to further helpreduce the size and weight of the headset, the transmission range isvery short, e.g., about 20 meters, to consume less power and require asmaller, lighter power supply 234 to persist a given mean time betweenrecharging, such as two hours. For example, in some embodiments, thetransmitter 232 uses BLUETOOTH protocol technology.

To further help reduce the size and weight of the headset, small, lightcomponents are used in chip set 220. For example, in some embodiments,one or more conductors or components include nanometer thick graphene,which suffer less dissipation loss, thus reducing heat of the chip setand reducing the drain on power supply 234, as well as providing fasterconduction and more reliable operation and smaller and lighter chipsets.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart that illustrates an example process for the chipset of FIG. 2C, according to one embodiment. In one embodiment, the chipset 220 performs the process 300 and is implemented in, for instance, achip set including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 7. Althoughmethods are depicted in FIG. 3, and subsequent flow charts in FIG. 4 andFIG. 5, as integral steps in a particular order for purposes ofillustration, in other embodiments, one or more steps, or portionsthereof, are performed in a different order, or overlapping in time, inseries or in parallel, or are omitted, or one or more additional stepsare added, or the method is changed in some combination of ways.

In step 301, analog electrical signals from two electrodes are bufferedto match impedances to 1 kilo ohm. In step 303, DC offsets are removedfrom the two analog signals from the two electrodes. In step 305, commonmode noise is rejected and the noise-reduced analog signal is amplified,e.g., in a differential amplifier. In step 307 the analog filter is bandpassed, e.g., passing the 0.25 to 40 Hz frequencies. In some embodimentsthat use only beta and theta brain waves, the band passed frequencyrange is about four (4) to about twenty (20) Hz. This removes highfrequency noise that would be aliased into the digital data in an ADC,if not removed before digitization. This also removes a high energypeak, at 50 or 60 Hz, which would remain in the noise-reduced data dueto the strong residual contribution at one of the power linefrequencies. In step 309, the noise reduced, band passed analog signalis amplified to drive the transmitter to reach design transmissionranges. In step 311, the amplified analog signal is convertedtransmitted wirelessly. In some embodiments, the analog signal isconverted to digital data during step 311 and transmitted as digitaldata in a fraction of the time in one or more data packets.

In some embodiments, one or more of steps 303, 305, 307 and 309 isomitted from the chip set 220 and performed at the analyzer 120. In suchembodiments, during step 311, analog data for each of the two analogsignals is transmitted on a corresponding one of two separate channels,e.g., as frequency modulated or amplitude modulated signals on twodifferent carrier frequencies.

Thus, method 300 includes at least, during step 301, determining a firstelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace at an active electrode incontact with a first position on a subject and determining a secondelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace at a reference electrodein contact with a different second position on the subject. In someembodiments, each of the active electrode and reference electrodecomprises a safe metal coated copper-beryllium alloy core, and each ofthe active electrode and reference electrode is disposed in acorresponding position on a headband. Step 301 includes determining, ina chip set disposed in the headband, two analog temporal traces based onthe first electroencephalogram potential temporal trace and the secondelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace. Step 311 includestransmitting, from the chip set disposed in the headband, data thatindicates the analog signal temporal trace or traces.

In some embodiments, steps 303, 305, 307 and 309 are included, and step305 includes determining, in a chip set disposed in the headband, oneanalog signal temporal trace (e.g., differential amplifier output) basedon the first electroencephalogram potential temporal trace and thesecond electroencephalogram potential temporal trace. In theseembodiments, determining the analog signal temporal trace furthercomprises determining a common mode noise reduced difference between thefirst electroencephalogram potential temporal trace and the secondelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace in a frequency band fromat least about four (4) Hertz to at least about twenty (20) Hertz,comprising beta brain waves and theta brain waves. If a wider band passis used in step 307, in some embodiments, then the analog signaltemporal trace indicates a common mode noise reduced difference betweenthe first electroencephalogram potential temporal trace and the secondelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace in a frequency band fromabout one quarter (0.25) Hertz to at least about forty (40) Hertz,comprising alpha brain waves, beta brain waves, delta brain waves andtheta brain waves.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart that illustrates an example process 400 for theanalyzing unit (analyzer 120) of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment.In one embodiment, the analyzer 120 performs the process 400 and isimplemented in, for instance, a chip set including a processor and amemory as shown in FIG. 7 or a general purpose computer as shown in FIG.6 or mobile terminal as depicted in FIG. 8. In step 401 the signalstransmitted from the chip set 220 are received. For example, the digitaldata indicating the noise reduced, band passed, amplified analog signalsare received. In some embodiments, the two analog signals are receivedand those are common mode noise reduced by differential amplifier andband passed and amplified and digitized in step 401.

In step 403, the digital signal time series is divided into two or morefrequency bands corresponding to one or more of the brain wave frequencybands. For example, in some embodiments the digital series is passedthrough two or more pass bands; or the power density in two or morebands is determined using digital Fourier analysis, such as with adigital Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) well known in the art. For example,in one embodiment, the strength of the beta brain wave band isrepresented by the power determined for a frequency band from 13 to 19Hz. Similarly, the strength of the theta brain wave band is representedby the power determined for a frequency band from 4 to 7 Hz.

In step 405 a score is based on the strength or peak frequency of thetarget band. For example, a score is determined based on the total powerdensity in the two bands, or the ratio of either, or the sum, to adifferent band, such as the alpha band represented by power density inthe frequency band from 8 to 12 Hz, or the frequency of a strongest peakin a brain wave frequency band, in various embodiments. For example, inthe experimental embodiment described above, if the subject wasfocusing, and the beta values were in the desired range (peak amplitudebetween 14-20 Hz), and the theta activity was in the desired range (apeak amplitude between 4-7 Hz), obstacle bars on the game would becomesmaller, enabling a little vehicle on the screen to travel along a roadon the screen. The more the subject focused and demonstrated a peakvalue approaching a value of 6 Hz in the target theta band and a valueof 17 Hz in the target beta band, the vehicle travelled at the samespeed but with fewer obstacles on the road. Furthermore, if the desiredideal state maintained itself because of the subject's focus, for morethan 5 seconds continuum, the vehicle would acquire glow, which is anoperant conditioning reinforcer, a positive response of the program tothe subject, letting the subject know that this is the desired mindstate.

In step 407, a magnitude of a stimulus to be presented to the subject isdetermined based on the score. For example, for a score over aparticular threshold value, a game playing subject 190 is rewarded witha treasure or superpower. In step 409, the stimulus determined in step407 is caused to be presented to the subject, e.g., by sending to theuser interface module 132. In some embodiments, step 407 and 409 areperformed by the interface server 134.

In step 411, data indicating the subject, time, score or magnitude ofthe stimulus, or some combination, is sent to the web server 142 forremote access by other users, such as a therapist using web client 144.

Thus, step 401 includes receiving wirelessly data that indicates ananalog signal temporal trace based on a first electroencephalogrampotential temporal trace of a subject and a different secondelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace of the subject. Step 403includes determining, based on the data, at least a first frequency bandand a different second frequency band selected from a group comprisingan alpha brain wave band, a beta brain wave band, a delta brain waveband and a theta brain wave band. Step 405 includes determining a scorebased on a strength of the first frequency band and a strength of thesecond frequency band. Sending the score to the interface server is oneway of causing a stimulus to be presented to the subject based at leastin part on the score, as occurs in steps 407 and 409 at the interfaceserver 134 in some embodiments.

By sending data that indicates the subject, time, score, or themagnitude of the stimulus, or some combination to web server 142, step411 includes causing the signal analyzing unit 120 to cause data thatindicates the subject and the score to be made available to a clienthost 144.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart that illustrates an example process 500 for theweb server 142 of FIG. 1A, according to one embodiment. In oneembodiment, the web server 142 performs the process 500 and isimplemented in, for instance, a general purpose computer as shown inFIG. 6.

In step 501, the web server 142 receives and stores data that indicatesthe subject, the time, the score or the magnitude of the stimulus, orsome combination. In step 503, one or more statistics of subjecttraining are derived based on the sent data, such as percent improvementin attention, or correlation of percent change with the magnitude of thestimulus, or time of day, or elapsed time since powering up the headset110.

In step 505 it is determined if a request message is received from anauthorized user, such as a therapist of the subject. If not, controlpasses back to step 501 to receive and store more data. If a requestmessage is received, then in step 507 the user is authenticated, if notalready authenticated, and an answer for the request is determined andsent to the web client 144 operated by the authorized user, such as thetherapist.

The processes described herein for attention training may beadvantageously implemented via software, hardware, firmware or acombination of software and/or firmware and/or hardware. For example,the processes described herein, may be advantageously implemented viaprocessor(s), Digital Signal Processing (DSP) chip, an ApplicationSpecific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Arrays(FPGAs), etc. Such exemplary hardware for performing the describedfunctions is detailed below.

FIG. 6 illustrates a computer system 600 upon which an embodiment of theinvention may be implemented. Although computer system 600 is depictedwith respect to a particular device or equipment, it is contemplatedthat other devices or equipment (e.g., network elements, servers, etc.)within FIG. 6 can deploy the illustrated hardware and components ofsystem 600. Computer system 600 is programmed (e.g., via computerprogram code or instructions) as described herein and includes acommunication mechanism such as a bus 610 for passing informationbetween other internal and external components of the computer system600. Information (also called data) is represented as a physicalexpression of a measurable phenomenon, typically electric voltages, butincluding, in other embodiments, such phenomena as magnetic,electromagnetic, pressure, chemical, biological, molecular, atomic,sub-atomic and quantum interactions. For example, north and southmagnetic fields, or a zero and non-zero electric voltage, represent twostates (0, 1) of a binary digit (bit). Other phenomena can representdigits of a higher base. A superposition of multiple simultaneousquantum states before measurement represents a quantum bit (qubit). Asequence of one or more digits constitutes digital data that is used torepresent a number or code for a character. In some embodiments,information called analog data is represented by a near continuum ofmeasurable values within a particular range. Computer system 600, or aportion thereof, constitutes a means for performing one or more steps asdescribed herein.

A bus 610 includes one or more parallel conductors of information sothat information is transferred quickly among devices coupled to the bus610. One or more processors 602 for processing information are coupledwith the bus 610.

A processor (or multiple processors) 602 performs a set of operations oninformation as specified by computer program code related as describedherein. The computer program code is a set of instructions or statementsproviding instructions for the operation of the processor and/or thecomputer system to perform specified functions. The code, for example,may be written in a computer programming language that is compiled intoa native instruction set of the processor. The code may also be writtendirectly using the native instruction set (e.g., machine language). Theset of operations include bringing information in from the bus 610 andplacing information on the bus 610. The set of operations also typicallyinclude comparing two or more units of information, shifting positionsof units of information, and combining two or more units of information,such as by addition or multiplication or logical operations like OR,exclusive OR (XOR), and AND. Each operation of the set of operationsthat can be performed by the processor is represented to the processorby information called instructions, such as an operation code of one ormore digits. A sequence of operations to be executed by the processor602, such as a sequence of operation codes, constitute processorinstructions, also called computer system instructions or, simply,computer instructions. Processors may be implemented as mechanical,electrical, magnetic, optical, chemical or quantum components, amongothers, alone or in combination.

Computer system 600 also includes a memory 604 coupled to bus 610. Thememory 604, such as a random access memory (RAM) or any other dynamicstorage device, stores information including processor instructions forsteps as described herein. Dynamic memory allows information storedtherein to be changed by the computer system 600. RAM allows a unit ofinformation stored at a location called a memory address to be storedand retrieved independently of information at neighboring addresses. Thememory 604 is also used by the processor 602 to store temporary valuesduring execution of processor instructions. The computer system 600 alsoincludes a read only memory (ROM) 606 or any other static storage devicecoupled to the bus 610 for storing static information, includinginstructions, that is not changed by the computer system 600. Somememory is composed of volatile storage that loses the information storedthereon when power is lost. Also coupled to bus 610 is a non-volatile(persistent) storage device 608, such as a magnetic disk, optical diskor flash card, for storing information, including instructions, thatpersists even when the computer system 600 is turned off or otherwiseloses power.

Information, including instructions for steps as described herein, isprovided to the bus 610 for use by the processor from an external inputdevice 612, such as a keyboard containing alphanumeric keys operated bya human user, or a sensor. A sensor detects conditions in its vicinityand transforms those detections into physical expression compatible withthe measurable phenomenon used to represent information in computersystem 600. Other external devices coupled to bus 610, used primarilyfor interacting with humans, include a display device 614, such as acathode ray tube (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emittingdiode (LED) display, an organic LED (OLED) display, a plasma screen, ora printer for presenting text or images, and a pointing device 616, suchas a mouse, a trackball, cursor direction keys, or a motion sensor, forcontrolling a position of a small cursor image presented on the display614 and issuing commands associated with graphical elements presented onthe display 614. In some embodiments, for example, in embodiments inwhich the computer system 600 performs all functions automaticallywithout human input, one or more of external input device 612, displaydevice 614 and pointing device 616 is omitted.

In the illustrated embodiment, special purpose hardware, such as anapplication specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 620, is coupled to bus610. The special purpose hardware is configured to perform operationsnot performed by processor 602 quickly enough for special purposes.Examples of ASICs include graphics accelerator cards for generatingimages for display 614, cryptographic boards for encrypting anddecrypting messages sent over a network, speech recognition, andinterfaces to special external devices, such as robotic arms and medicalscanning equipment that repeatedly perform some complex sequence ofoperations that are more efficiently implemented in hardware.

Computer system 600 also includes one or more instances of acommunications interface 670 coupled to bus 610. Communication interface670 provides a one-way or two-way communication coupling to a variety ofexternal devices that operate with their own processors, such asprinters, scanners and external disks. In general the coupling is with anetwork link 678 that is connected to a local network 680 to which avariety of external devices with their own processors are connected. Forexample, communication interface 670 may be a parallel port or a serialport or a universal serial bus (USB) port on a personal computer. Insome embodiments, communications interface 670 is an integrated servicesdigital network (ISDN) card or a digital subscriber line (DSL) card or atelephone modem that provides an information communication connection toa corresponding type of telephone line. In some embodiments, acommunication interface 670 is a cable modem that converts signals onbus 610 into signals for a communication connection over a coaxial cableor into optical signals for a communication connection over a fiberoptic cable. As another example, communications interface 670 may be alocal area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connectionto a compatible LAN, such as Ethernet. Wireless links may also beimplemented. For wireless links, the communications interface 670 sendsor receives or both sends and receives electrical, acoustic orelectromagnetic signals, including infrared and optical signals, thatcarry information streams, such as digital data. For example, inwireless handheld devices, such as mobile telephones like cell phones,the communications interface 670 includes a radio band electromagnetictransmitter and receiver called a radio transceiver. In certainembodiments, the communications interface 670 enables connection to thecommunication network 105 for one or more steps as described herein tothe UE 101.

The term “computer-readable medium” as used herein refers to any mediumthat participates in providing information to processor 602, includinginstructions for execution. Such a medium may take many forms,including, but not limited to computer-readable storage medium (e.g.,non-volatile media, volatile media), and transmission media.Non-transitory media, such as non-volatile media, include, for example,optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 608. Volatile mediainclude, for example, dynamic memory 604. Transmission media include,for example, twisted pair cables, coaxial cables, copper wire, fiberoptic cables, and carrier waves that travel through space without wiresor cables, such as acoustic waves and electromagnetic waves, includingradio, optical and infrared waves. Signals include man-made transientvariations in amplitude, frequency, phase, polarization or otherphysical properties transmitted through the transmission media. Commonforms of computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, aflexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, aCD-ROM, CDRW, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape,optical mark sheets, any other physical medium with patterns of holes orother optically recognizable indicia, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, aFLASH-EPROM, an EEPROM, a flash memory, any other memory chip orcartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer canread. The term computer-readable storage medium is used herein to referto any computer-readable medium except transmission media.

Logic encoded in one or more tangible media includes one or both ofprocessor instructions on a computer-readable storage media and specialpurpose hardware, such as ASIC 620.

Network link 678 typically provides information communication usingtransmission media through one or more networks to other devices thatuse or process the information. For example, network link 678 mayprovide a connection through local network 680 to a host computer 682 orto equipment 684 operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISPequipment 684 in turn provides data communication services through thepublic, world-wide packet-switching communication network of networksnow commonly referred to as the Internet 690.

A computer called a server host 692 connected to the Internet hosts aprocess that provides a service in response to information received overthe Internet. For example, server host 692 hosts a process that providesinformation representing video data for presentation at display 614. Itis contemplated that the components of system 600 can be deployed invarious configurations within other computer systems, e.g., host 682 andserver 692.

At least some embodiments of the invention are related to the use ofcomputer system 600 for implementing some or all of the techniquesdescribed herein. According to one embodiment of the invention, thosetechniques are performed by computer system 600 in response to processor602 executing one or more sequences of one or more processorinstructions contained in memory 604. Such instructions, also calledcomputer instructions, software and program code, may be read intomemory 604 from another computer-readable medium such as storage device608 or network link 678. Execution of the sequences of instructionscontained in memory 604 causes processor 602 to perform one or more ofthe method steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hardware,such as ASIC 620, may be used in place of or in combination withsoftware to implement the invention. Thus, embodiments of the inventionare not limited to any specific combination of hardware and software,unless otherwise explicitly stated herein.

The signals transmitted over network link 678 and other networks throughcommunications interface 670, carry information to and from computersystem 600. Computer system 600 can send and receive information,including program code, through the networks 680, 690 among others,through network link 678 and communications interface 670. In an exampleusing the Internet 690, a server host 692 transmits program code for aparticular application, requested by a message sent from computer 600,through Internet 690, ISP equipment 684, local network 680 andcommunications interface 670. The received code may be executed byprocessor 602 as it is received, or may be stored in memory 604 or instorage device 608 or any other non-volatile storage for laterexecution, or both. In this manner, computer system 600 may obtainapplication program code in the form of signals on a carrier wave.

Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying oneor more sequence of instructions or data or both to processor 602 forexecution. For example, instructions and data may initially be carriedon a magnetic disk of a remote computer such as host 682. The remotecomputer loads the instructions and data into its dynamic memory andsends the instructions and data over a telephone line using a modem. Amodem local to the computer system 600 receives the instructions anddata on a telephone line and uses an infra-red transmitter to convertthe instructions and data to a signal on an infra-red carrier waveserving as the network link 678. An infrared detector serving ascommunications interface 670 receives the instructions and data carriedin the infrared signal and places information representing theinstructions and data onto bus 610. Bus 610 carries the information tomemory 604 from which processor 602 retrieves and executes theinstructions using some of the data sent with the instructions. Theinstructions and data received in memory 604 may optionally be stored onstorage device 608, either before or after execution by the processor602.

FIG. 7 illustrates a chip set or chip 700 upon which an embodiment ofthe invention may be implemented. Chip set 700 is programmed to performone or more steps as described herein and includes, for instance, theprocessor and memory components described with respect to FIG. 6incorporated in one or more physical packages (e.g., chips). By way ofexample, a physical package includes an arrangement of one or morematerials, components, and/or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., abaseboard) to provide one or more characteristics such as physicalstrength, conservation of size, and/or limitation of electricalinteraction. It is contemplated that in certain embodiments the chip set700 can be implemented in a single chip. It is further contemplated thatin certain embodiments the chip set or chip 700 can be implemented as asingle “system on a chip.” It is further contemplated that in certainembodiments a separate ASIC would not be used, for example, and that allrelevant functions as disclosed herein would be performed by a processoror processors. Chip set or chip 700, or a portion thereof, constitutes ameans for performing one or more steps of providing user interfacenavigation information associated with the availability of functions.Chip set or chip 700, or a portion thereof, constitutes a means forperforming one or more steps as described herein.

In one embodiment, the chip set or chip 700 includes a communicationmechanism such as a bus 701 for passing information among the componentsof the chip set 700. A processor 703 has connectivity to the bus 701 toexecute instructions and process information stored in, for example, amemory 705. The processor 703 may include one or more processing coreswith each core configured to perform independently. A multi-coreprocessor enables multiprocessing within a single physical package.Examples of a multi-core processor include two, four, eight, or greaternumbers of processing cores. Alternatively or in addition, the processor703 may include one or more microprocessors configured in tandem via thebus 701 to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining, andmultithreading. The processor 703 may also be accompanied with one ormore specialized components to perform certain processing functions andtasks such as one or more digital signal processors (DSP) 707, or one ormore application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) 709. A DSP 707typically is configured to process real-world signals (e.g., sound) inreal time independently of the processor 703. Similarly, an ASIC 709 canbe configured to performed specialized functions not easily performed bya more general purpose processor. Other specialized components to aid inperforming the inventive functions described herein may include one ormore field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) (not shown), one or morecontrollers (not shown), or one or more other special-purpose computerchips.

In one embodiment, the chip set or chip 700 includes merely one or moreprocessors and some software and/or firmware supporting and/or relatingto and/or for the one or more processors.

The processor 703 and accompanying components have connectivity to thememory 705 via the bus 701. The memory 705 includes both dynamic memory(e.g., RAM, magnetic disk, writable optical disk, etc.) and staticmemory (e.g., ROM, CD-ROM, etc.) for storing executable instructionsthat when executed perform the inventive steps described herein. Thememory 705 also stores the data associated with or generated by theexecution of the inventive steps.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of exemplary components of a mobile terminal (e.g.,handset) for communications, which is capable of operating in the systemof FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, mobileterminal 801, or a portion thereof, constitutes a means for performingone or more steps described herein. Generally, a radio receiver is oftendefined in terms of front-end and back-end characteristics. Thefront-end of the receiver encompasses all of the Radio Frequency (RF)circuitry whereas the back-end encompasses all of the base-bandprocessing circuitry. As used in this application, the term “circuitry”refers to both: (1) hardware-only implementations (such asimplementations in only analog and/or digital circuitry), and (2) tocombinations of circuitry and software (and/or firmware) (such as, ifapplicable to the particular context, to a combination of processor(s),including digital signal processor(s), software, and memory(ies) thatwork together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server,to perform various functions). This definition of “circuitry” applies toall uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As afurther example, as used in this application and if applicable to theparticular context, the term “circuitry” would also cover animplementation of merely a processor (or multiple processors) and its(or their) accompanying software/or firmware. The term “circuitry” wouldalso cover if applicable to the particular context, for example, abaseband integrated circuit or applications processor integrated circuitin a mobile phone or a similar integrated circuit in a cellular networkdevice or other network devices.

Pertinent internal components of the telephone include a Main ControlUnit (MCU) 803, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) 805, and areceiver/transmitter unit including a microphone gain control unit and aspeaker gain control unit. A main display unit 807 provides a display tothe user in support of various applications and mobile terminalfunctions that perform or support the steps as described herein. Thedisplay 807 includes display circuitry configured to display at least aportion of a user interface of the mobile terminal (e.g., mobiletelephone). Additionally, the display 807 and display circuitry areconfigured to facilitate user control of at least some functions of themobile terminal. An audio function circuitry 809 includes a microphone811 and microphone amplifier that amplifies the speech signal outputfrom the microphone 811. The amplified speech signal output from themicrophone 811 is fed to a coder/decoder (CODEC) 813.

A radio section 815 amplifies power and converts frequency in order tocommunicate with a base station, which is included in a mobilecommunication system, via antenna 817. The power amplifier (PA) 819 andthe transmitter/modulation circuitry are operationally responsive to theMCU 803, with an output from the PA 819 coupled to the duplexer 821 orcirculator or antenna switch, as known in the art. The PA 819 alsocouples to a battery interface and power control unit 820.

In use, a user of mobile terminal 801 speaks into the microphone 811 andhis or her voice along with any detected background noise is convertedinto an analog voltage. The analog voltage is then converted into adigital signal through the Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) 823. Thecontrol unit 803 routes the digital signal into the DSP 805 forprocessing therein, such as speech encoding, channel encoding,encrypting, and interleaving. In one embodiment, the processed voicesignals are encoded, by units not separately shown, using a cellulartransmission protocol such as enhanced data rates for global evolution(EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), global system for mobilecommunications (GSM), Internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS),universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), etc., as well as anyother suitable wireless medium, e.g., microwave access (WiMAX), LongTerm Evolution (LTE) networks, code division multiple access (CDMA),wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), wireless fidelity(WiFi), satellite, and the like, or any combination thereof.

The encoded signals are then routed to an equalizer 825 for compensationof any frequency-dependent impairments that occur during transmissionthough the air such as phase and amplitude distortion. After equalizingthe bit stream, the modulator 827 combines the signal with a RF signalgenerated in the RF interface 829. The modulator 827 generates a sinewave by way of frequency or phase modulation. In order to prepare thesignal for transmission, an up-converter 831 combines the sine waveoutput from the modulator 827 with another sine wave generated by asynthesizer 833 to achieve the desired frequency of transmission. Thesignal is then sent through a PA 819 to increase the signal to anappropriate power level. In practical systems, the PA 819 acts as avariable gain amplifier whose gain is controlled by the DSP 805 frominformation received from a network base station. The signal is thenfiltered within the duplexer 821 and optionally sent to an antennacoupler 835 to match impedances to provide maximum power transfer.Finally, the signal is transmitted via antenna 817 to a local basestation. An automatic gain control (AGC) can be supplied to control thegain of the final stages of the receiver. The signals may be forwardedfrom there to a remote telephone which may be another cellulartelephone, any other mobile phone or a land-line connected to a PublicSwitched Telephone Network (PSTN), or other telephony networks.

Voice signals transmitted to the mobile terminal 801 are received viaantenna 817 and immediately amplified by a low noise amplifier (LNA)837. A down-converter 839 lowers the carrier frequency while thedemodulator 841 strips away the RF leaving only a digital bit stream.The signal then goes through the equalizer 825 and is processed by theDSP 805. A Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) 843 converts the signal andthe resulting output is transmitted to the user through the speaker 845,all under control of a Main Control Unit (MCU) 803 which can beimplemented as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) (not shown).

The MCU 803 receives various signals including input signals from thekeyboard 847. The keyboard 847 and/or the MCU 803 in combination withother user input components (e.g., the microphone 811) comprise a userinterface circuitry for managing user input. The MCU 803 runs a userinterface software to facilitate user control of at least some functionsof the mobile terminal 801 as described herein. The MCU 803 alsodelivers a display command and a switch command to the display 807 andto the speech output switching controller, respectively. Further, theMCU 803 exchanges information with the DSP 805 and can access anoptionally incorporated SIM card 849 and a memory 851. In addition, theMCU 803 executes various control functions required of the terminal. TheDSP 805 may, depending upon the implementation, perform any of a varietyof conventional digital processing functions on the voice signals.Additionally, DSP 805 determines the background noise level of the localenvironment from the signals detected by microphone 811 and sets thegain of microphone 811 to a level selected to compensate for the naturaltendency of the user of the mobile terminal 801.

The CODEC 813 includes the ADC 823 and DAC 843. The memory 851 storesvarious data including call incoming tone data and is capable of storingother data including music data received via, e.g., the global Internet.The software module could reside in RAM memory, flash memory, registers,or any other form of writable storage medium known in the art. Thememory device 851 may be, but not limited to, a single memory, CD, DVD,ROM, RAM, EEPROM, optical storage, magnetic disk storage, flash memorystorage, or any other non-volatile storage medium capable of storingdigital data.

An optionally incorporated SIM card 849 carries, for instance, importantinformation, such as the cellular phone number, the carrier supplyingservice, subscription details, and security information. The SIM card849 serves primarily to identify the mobile terminal 801 on a radionetwork. The card 849 also contains a memory for storing a personaltelephone number registry, text messages, and user specific mobileterminal settings.

While the invention has been described in connection with a number ofembodiments and implementations, the invention is not so limited butcovers various obvious modifications and equivalent arrangements, whichfall within the purview of the appended claims. Although features of theinvention are expressed in certain combinations among the claims, it iscontemplated that these features can be arranged in any combination andorder.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: a headband configured tofit snugly to a head of a subject in an orientation from behind a firstear of the subject, across a top of a crown of the subject, to aposition behind a second ear of the subject, wherein the headband has awidth of about four centimeters or less and a thickness of about onecentimeter or less; wherein the headband has at least three activeelectrodes, a first active electrode disposed in the headband, a secondreference electrode disposed in the headband, and a third groundelectrode disposed in the headband; wherein the first active electrodeincluding a first hemispherical metal coated core having a radius ofabout three millimeters or less extending perpendicular to the headbandby a distance about equal to the radius of the first hemispherical metalcoated core, the first hemispherical metal coated core positioned tocontact the head of the subject at a first position, the first positioncorresponding to about a Cz location on the subject according to a 10-20electrode placement system of the International Federation ofElectroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology; the secondelectrode including a second hemispherical metal coated core having aradius of about three millimeters or less extending perpendicular to theheadband by a distance about equal to the radius of the secondhemispherical metal coated core, the second hemispherical metal coatedcore positioned to contact the head of the subject at a second position,the second position corresponding to about a first mastoid location onthe subject; the third electrode is positioned at a third position, thethird position corresponding to about a second mastoid location on aside of the head of the subject opposite the first mastoid location; andwherein the contact of the first hemispherical metal coated core and thesecond hemispherical metal coated core with the head of the subject is anon-liquid contact, a non-gel contact, and a non-abrasion contact,providing a sensitive electrical contact for preprocessing and wirelesstransmission of data, the sensitive electrical contact provided in apresence of hair on the head of the subject.
 2. The apparatus of claim1, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the second electrodeextends perpendicular to the headband by a distance of about 0.3centimeters or less.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least oneof the first electrode and the second electrode has a contact area onthe headband.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the firstelectrode and the second electrode makes electrical contact with thehead of the subject with an electrical impedance of less than about 3kilo ohms upon simple contact pressure provided by the headband andwithout abrasion or application of a gel or a liquid.
 5. The apparatusof claim 1 further comprising a chip-set disposed on the headband,wherein the chip set is configured to: determine an analog signal basedon a first signal received from the first electrode and a second signalreceived from the second electrode; and transmit, wirelessly, digitaldata that indicates the analog signal.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5,wherein to transmit the digital data further comprises to transmit thedigital data over a short distance using a wireless device.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 5, wherein the analog signal indicates a common modenoise reduced difference between the first signal and the second signalin a frequency band from about four (4) Hertz to about twenty (20)Hertz, including beta brain waves, alpha brain waves, and theta brainwaves.
 8. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the analog signal indicatesa common mode noise reduced difference between the first signal and thesecond signal in a frequency band from about one quarter (0.25) Hertz toabout forty (40) Hertz, including alpha brain waves, beta brain waves,delta brain waves and theta brain waves.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein at least one of the first electrode and the second electrodeinclude a base contact area having a diameter of about 0.4 centimetersor less.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one electrode ofthe first electrode and the second electrode is composed of by: (1) morethan 3 percent by weight of a beryllium; (2) less than 3 percent byweight of other metals; and (3) a remaining percent by weight of acopper.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a chip-set, thechip-set including at least one component having a nanometer thickgraphene.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one electrodeof the first electrode and the second electrode is formed with aberyllium copper core and a metal coating, the metal coating selectedfrom the group consisting of one of copper, gold and silver.
 13. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein at least one electrode of the firstelectrode and the second electrode includes a beryllium copper alloy,having about 4 percent by weight of beryllium, about 93.5 percent byweight copper, about 1 percent by weight an alloy of one half nickel andone half cobalt, about 0.7 percent by weight an alloy containing atleast nickel and cobalt, and about 0.8 percent by weight lead.
 14. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the spherical metal coated core has a tipconfigured to contact the user and a metal coated base configured toattach to the headband, the metal coated base includes a base contactarea on the headband with a diameter of about 0.4 centimeters or less.15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the distance of the first orsecond electrode extending perpendicular to the headband is configuredupon: (1) a level of an electrical contact with the head of the subject;(2) the first or second electrode having the nonliquid contact, thenon-gel contact and the non-abrasion contact with the head of thesubject; and (3) the first or second electrode having a contact with thehead of the subject without breaking the skin of the subject.
 16. Amethod comprising: determining, using a headband having at least threeelectrodes, the headband configured to fit snugly to a head of a subjectin an orientation from behind a first ear of the subject, across a topof a crown of the subject, to a position behind a second ear of thesubject, a first electroencephalogram potential temporal trace from thesubject at a first active electrode disposed in the headband, the firstactive electrode including a first hemispherical metal coated corehaving a radius of about three millimeters or less extendingperpendicular to the headband by a distance about equal to the radius ofthe first hemispherical metal coated core, the first hemispherical metalcoated core positioned in contact with a first position on the subject,the first position corresponding to about a Cz location on the subjectaccording to a 10-20 electrode placement system of the InternationalFederation of Electroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology;determining, using the headband, a second electroencephalogram potentialtemporal trace from the subject at a second reference electrode disposedin the headband, the second reference electrode including a secondhemispherical metal coated core having a radius of about threemillimeters or less extending perpendicular to the headband by adistance about equal to the radius of the second hemispherical metalcoated core, the second hemispherical metal coated core positioned incontact with a different second position on the subject, the differentsecond position corresponding to about a first mastoid location on aside of the head of the subject, wherein the contact of the firsthemispherical metal coated core and the second hemispherical metalcoated core with the head of the subject is a non-liquid contact, anon-gel contact, and a non-abrasion contact, providing a sensitiveelectrical contact for preprocessing and wireless transmission of data,the sensitive electrical contact provided in a presence of hair on thehead of the subject, and wherein each of the active electrode andreference electrode is disposed in a corresponding position on theheadband having a width of about four centimeters or less and athickness of about one centimeter or less; determining, in a chip setdisposed in the headband, wherein the chip set is in electricalcommunication with a third ground electrode, the third ground electrodepositioned in the headband at a second mastoid location on a side of thehead of the subject opposite the first mastoid position, an analogsignal temporal trace based on the first electroencephalogram potentialtemporal trace and the second electroencephalogram potential temporaltrace; and transmitting, from the chip set disposed in the headband,digital data that indicates the analog signal temporal trace.
 17. Themethod of claim 16, wherein transmitting the digital data furthercomprises transmitting the digital data over a short distance using awireless device protocol.
 18. The method of claim 16, whereindetermining the analog signal temporal trace further comprisesdetermining a common mode noise reduced difference between the firstelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace and the secondelectroencephalogram potential temporal trace in a frequency band fromabout four (4) Hertz to about twenty (20) Hertz, including beta brainwaves and theta brain waves.
 19. The method of claim 16, wherein theanalog signal temporal trace indicates a common mode noise reduceddifference between the first electroencephalogram potential temporaltrace and the second electroencephalogram potential temporal trace in afrequency band from about one quarter (0.25) Hertz to about forty (40)Hertz, including alpha brain waves, beta brain waves, delta brain wavesand theta brain waves.